The economic transformation of the UAE since its independence in 1971 stands as one of the most spectacular in the modern economic history of nation states.
From a cluster of villages on the Arabian Peninsula engaged in pearl diving and spice trading, a nation has emerged with enviable economic strength.
Going beyond the stunning economic growth, the country is fast emerging as an example for the world in all round human development ranging from science and technology, education, art and culture and tolerance.
Early history
Although historians have traced human habitation and civilisation in the current UAE to BC 6000, recorded history of the area is more visible from the time of the arrival of Islamic civilization in the seventh century AD. The Islamic civilisation flourished in the Gulf region during the Umayyad Caliphate AD661 to 750 and Abbasid Caliphate AD750 to 1258. Along with fishing and agriculture, sea trade prospered between the Gulf region and other areas in South East Asia and along the West African coast and ships' craftsmanship spread in the region.
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